There will be no easing into the 2016 season for two teams that have accounted for the last three Nassau II championships. The quirks of the scheduling formula match No. 1 MacArthur against host No. 3 Carey on Saturday at 2 p.m.

“Being that we stopped their quest for a third consecutive title, they might be looking forward to this game,” MacArthur coach Bobby Fehrenbach said, referencing the Generals’ victory over Carey in last year’s semifinals that ended the Seahawks’ two-year reign as county and Long Island champions. “But we are going to have a lot of new faces starting who will be thrown into the fire right away.”

Those new Generals are mostly at the skill positions, but returning Newsday All-Long Island two-way lineman Ryan O’Shea anchors an experienced defense. Their challenge will be the Seahawks’ veteran offensive unit led by dangerous wide receiver Tyler DeMeo plus running back Zach Dente and quarterback Dan Conte. “You can’t ask for a better way to start off the season, hosting the defending champs.” Carey coach Mike Stanley said. “Neither team is hoisting a trophy after the game, but will feel like a playoff atmosphere.”

Ward Melville is seeded No. 3, highest in school history, and the Patriots’ high hopes hinge on how well new quarterback Wesley Manning transitions from wide receiver. It helps to have fleet targets Eddie Munoz and John Corpac. Northport has running back depth in Frankie Stola and Ryan Elliott.

SUFFOLK III

Kings Park at Westhampton, Friday, 6 p.m.

Paul Cooper set Kings Park single-season records for passing yards and completions last year and there’s experience up front. The Kingsmen must be wary of versatile Dylan Laube, (24 touchdowns) who can score from anywhere on the field.

NASSAU III

Wantagh at Plainedge, Saturday, 2 p.m.

Wantagh should be ready to get even for its loss to Plainedge in the county finals, helped by healthy middle linebacker Sean Colbert, who played much of last season with a shoulder injury. Defensive end Joe Valenti excels on a hard-hitting unit. The Red Devils are reloading after graduation of record-setting runner Davien Kuinlan.

SUFFOLK IV

Mt. Sinai at Glenn, Saturday, 2 p.m.

The host Knights will use first-year starter Kyle Tiernan at quarterback, aided by veteran, speedy wide receivers. The Mustangs’ Mike Carneiro is a big-play running back.

CHSFL

Holy Trinity at St. John the Baptist, Saturday, 1:30 p.m.

St. John the Baptist should again contend for the Class AA league title behind a veteran offensive line led by 345-pound Jacob Woods. The Titans’ strong running game features Umari Taylor, who scored nine touchdowns and gained 572 yards.

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